Pi3 Matrix Board Device Specific Help

Introduction:

The Pi3 Matrix Board (Part # XK-0988-UNM128-R) is a user programmable input device. The 128 digital inputs can be used to emulate a keyboard, mouse, joystick, or communicate directly with software like MacroWorks. It works well with any type of dry contact switch enclosure (momentary, toggle, rotary, relay). Ideal for wiring your own input panel such as a cockpit simulator, cab simulator, or other gaming station. Programming is easily accomplished via our included X-keys MacroWorks software for Windows (XP, Vista, 7, or 8) and programmers can use one of our SDKs for Windows or Linux to read data directly from the X-keys.

Features:

Full MacroWorks software support, in addition to internal memory for hardware resident macros

Internal memory for hardware resident macros for OS independent support

Complete SDK, for both Windows and Linux

Phantom key protection circuits

Key Matrix:

The matrix consists of 8 rows and 16 columns for a total of 128 possible keys.

Non-volatile Memory:

The Pi3 Matrix Board has a non-volatile memory to allow the unit to record keyboard and other hardware messages. If programmed, these message are retained with the individual unit. The messages are permanent until the unit is reprogrammed. This allows the programmed unit to be used on any USB compatible system without extra software. Keyboard, mouse, and joystick(game controller) messages can be stored and replayed from this memory.

A total of approximately 1200 keystrokes can be recorded on a single unit. These can be distributed over the assigned switches in any fashion. Mouse and joystick commands also use this memory and will reduce the total number of keystrokes available in memory. Additionally, other variables are stored in the unit memory, such as: Product ID, Endpoint settings, and Unit ID.

Programming Switch:

The program switch is located on the side of the Matrix Board. Pressing the program switch will display the MacroWorks GUI by default.

Header Wiring:

Connecting the Switches:

The 128 switch points in the matrix are connected by wiring one side of eight switches to one of the 16 column pins. The other side of each switch is then wired, through a diode, to one of the 8 rows and the wiring is repeated for each of the 16 columns (see diagram below). Using standard signal diodes (1N4148 or equivalent) will isolate each switch so no phantom keys will appear if more than 3 keys are pressed.

LEDS:

The two LEDs mounted next to the programming switch indicate the active layer on the Matrix Board. If you choose to make second layer features available to the end user, we recommend making these LEDs visible. Pins 8 and 21 provide a means of connecting indicator LEDs through the header. The other end of the LEDs must be connected to a 5V source and pins 13 and 16 may be used for this purpose. When connecting LEDs to these pins, the LEDs on the Encoder Board should be disconnected

Unit ID:

Each device has a Unit ID (UID) to help identify an individual unit and prevent conflicts if 2 or more of the same devices are attached to computer. From the factory the UID is set to 0. The unit ID is incremented by the programming software to prevent conflicts and uniquely identify the associated macros. The maximum UID is 255, and is stored in the non-volatile device memory.

Endpoints and PIDs:

This device has several USB HID endpoints to allow the device to emulate standard USB HID devices. The Product ID (PID) may be changed to use different combinations.

SDKs:

The SDK (software development kit) contains data and sample programs to demonstrate how to write a complete custom application interface. There are samples that can view the full HID USB device consumer input reports, enabling you to manipulate the input with your own custom application. All aspects of the Matrix Board hardware can be tested with the sample programs. SDKs are available for Windows and Linux OS. Please visit our website for more information on SDKs.

Extra Cable Length:

The Matrix Board has an attached 1.4 m cord. It may be possible to use a short extension cord if a little extra length is needed. To achieve lengths much greater than 5 meters a USB Extender must be used. The X-keys® Extender uses Category 5 cable to extend the connection between any X-keys USB device and the USB port on the computer. Standard CAT 5 cable cut to any length up to 150 feet (45.7 m) and wired with standard RJ45 network connectors can be used to create a reliable long distance USB connection.